2011 Gordon Hills Lidster Hill Orange Cabernet Blend Dozens

Cracka Value Rating

Cracka Review

Those who think Orange in NSW is too cool for Cabernet, think again. The region is more than capable of producing a decent Cab Sauv, and this blend is no exception. It displays fragrant aromas of dark-berried fruits with a touch of tobacco on the nose. The palate is more medium-bodied with a ripe plummy centre, finely grained tannins and a dry, decent length. It's drinking well now, and would match barbecued spare ribs perfectly.

Winemaker's Notes

The 10 hectare vineyard a Gordon Hills Estate was established in 1999 and is perfectly located on the northern slops of Mount Canobolas.

At a height of 900 metres above sea level the vineyard is perfectly located to produce cool climate wine.

The fruit was hand-picked, crushed and de-stemmed then placed into open fermenters.

Naturally fermented by wild yeast and macerated on skins for four weeks.

The wine was transferred to small French oak using 25% new barrels.

Aromatic with soft and delicate dark fruit flavours the wine is delicious now but will repay cellaring to 15 years or beyond.

expert reviews about

2011 Gordon Hills Lidster Hill Orange Cabernet Blend Dozens

Expert Reviews

James Halliday (2011 Vintage) says

A 60/19/21% blend from the vineyard sitting at 900m; de-stemmed and open-fermented and macerated on skins for 4 weeks, and pressed to French barriques (25% new). The hue is bright, light crimson-purple, and the only thing missing is more conviction to the fruit and tannin mix - not surprising in the context of the vintage.